Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Hunter Dec 26 - POWDER ALERT

Hi All,
I hope you are enjoying the holidays.
There is a winter weather advisory posted for 7 pm tonight thru 7 PM Thursday with minimum 6-10 inches expected but could be alot more. Surface conditions have been good with snow making around the clock and it has not been too crowded considering the holiday.....so far at least. Visibility has been poor with cloud cover most of the time. New trails including the west side are opening daily.
For those of you new to my postings please note I only ski early mornings and report on those conditions. Conditions, weather and surface, at Hunter can change hourly as you all well know with either new snow, scraped off hardpack or very soft spring-like snow.
Ski ya soon,
Jon
 
 
** Nearly all of the NewsChannel 13 viewing area is under a winter storm warning from tonight through Thursday night  **
 

Thursday, December 20, 2012

Hunter News 12/20

Hi All,
Get ready for some rough weather (see below). The ski conditions are poor - frozen granular, sugary, bumpy and chunky at best. I do not ski when it is defensive and one has to use all of one's skills to survive. Yes, it is sunny out but recent high winds with cold nights / warm days made it very hard & icy with narrow paths to navigate. The groomers do not have enough base to really dig down and crunch it up.
Long range forecast calls for cold snow making weather next week.
Happy Holidays!
 
WNYT Albany - 
Winter Storm Watch is in effect This Evening thru Friday Morning for most of Warren County, Hamilton, and Northern Herkimer Counties . . .
High Wind Watch is in effect Late Tonight thru Friday Afternoon for the Greene County & Ulster County Catskills, The Berkshires, Southern Vermont, and Essex County.
Snow & Sleet: High terrain of the Catskills - Coating to an inch of snow/sleet tonight into Friday.  4 to 8" of snow & sleet will be possible across the higher terrain of the Adirondacks.
Winter begins "offically" on Friday at 6:12 AM . . .

Friday, December 14, 2012

Hunter News 12/14

HI All,
As expected another perfect weather day to ski. There was fresh powder on H-B-K but the Belt was still a disaster - it needs some serious grooming. Temps got into the teens last night but 40 now with brilliant sun. Although there was no line at the lift, Hgate was getting a bit busy and was scraped off by 11 am. Fresh snow was made on LowerCross and Minya which are scheduled to open tomorrow. Hunter One was also covered. There has been no snow making on any other trails yet.
The Copper Tree bar and restaurant should be open for the weekend of Dec 22-23.
The weather for Sat looks very nice but there will be a change as mixed precip comes in Sun thru Tuesday - at best it will be wet snow.
WNYT Albany Forecast http://wnyt.com/article/708/
Thanks to those of you signing on to my blog as "followers" but I need many more to do so. http://hunterskiscene.blogspot.com/
Ski ya,
Jon
 

Thursday, December 13, 2012

Hunter News Dec 13

Hello All,
Putting things in perspective, today was the best day of skiing so far. Brilliant sun, nice powder blown from mid station on down and Hgate was flat, firm but softened by 11. Temps were in the low 20's last night but 40 now. Snow can only be blown at night.
Belt was the worst trail - dark, frozen, crunchy and very variable mainly due to a water line break up there last night. There are no other trails on the main mtn even close to opening. There is snow on Minya but not much on Lower Cross. The weather looks great for Friday and part of Saturday but Sunday could be a mix of rain/snow depending on where the frontal line sits. There is also talk of a temperature inversion for the weekend into next week.
Pray for snow,
Jon
Please visit my blog site and sign on as followers - need more people to keep it active.  http://hunterskiscene.blogspot.com/
 
WNYT forecast:
High pressure will keep the weather dry for us for the rest of the work week into Saturday.  Some clouds will move through from time to time but with a light breeze, highs will top out in the upper 30s and lower 40s.  Overnight lows will drop to the 20s.
On Sunday, the first in a series of disturbances heads our way as the weather pattern gets more active.  Right now it looks like we will be right on the line between rain and snow.  The subsequent storms will move through into the early and mid part of the week keeping the rain and/or snow threat going into Wednesday.

Friday, December 7, 2012

Hunter News Dec 7

Hello Hunter fans,
First a tribute and remembrance for those in service who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor 71 yrs ago today (1941).
The weather continues to be a big problem for the start of the season. It is 39 with light rain now and the rest of the weekend thru Monday is not looking good.
There was a lot of snow blown on the main line and Belt yesterday. HBK was marginally groomed but was, for the most part, nothing but moguls all the way and if you didn't have your ski legs yet, it was a real work-out.  Visibility was also poor with flat light - not a fun or long morning for me at least. Belt was not opened as they are saving it for tomorrow - big woop!
Demo day has been postponed, as I had imagined, until Thursday Dec 27 during Xmas week.
Looks like alot of people will attend the movies this weekend - Sky Fall: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html
The tree lighting with music and wine tasting will be in the lobby of the KMC Hotel at 5pm today.
Someone please do a snow dance that will work!
Ski ya,
Jon
 
 
Weather - WNYT Albany forecast: read it and weep!
The clouds have thickened and now we continue to track the incoming precipitation.  I say "incoming precipitation" because we are dealing with some "spitting" flurries, some light rain showers, and some light freezing rain / freezing drizzle.
We'll continue to deal with the precipitation-type issues this evening and into the overnight period.  But, it appears that any threat of freezing rain / freezing drizzle will be up across portions of the North Country into the Adirondacks as well as parts of Vermont.  Lows will be in the upper 20s and lower 30s up north with lower & mid 30s around the Capital District points south & west.
Any freezing rain / freezing drizzle up north Saturday morning will transition to rain showers.  And, that threat of rain showers remains with us all day Saturday.  Otherwise, it'll be cloudy & damp.  Highs will be in the 40s.
The threat of rain showers diminishes Saturday night with the opportunity for some sunshine on Sunday.  We'll all see the threat of rain on Monday with perhaps some snow showers in the forecast for Tuesday.

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Hunter News Dec 5

Hello Hunter fans,
As you know the Snow Gods have not been kind to Hunter. Maybe we didn't sacrifice enough skis at the ULLR-fest.
The unusually warm temps have wreaked havoc on the conditions with temps yesterday at 60 and rain last night. With very sloppy spring conditions grooming has been next to impossible. The guns will definitely be turned on tonight as temps cool off (still in the low 40's now) but for how long remains to be seen. The week ahead forecast (below) is not exactly favorable. You can see what snow is left yourself by clicking on this link to the snow web cams:  http://www.huntermtn.com/huntermtn/webcams.aspx
 
Consumer demo days are scheduled for this weekend but I am not sure that it will be feasable.
The weekend movies include James Bond / Skyfall:  http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html
 
Thanks to Al D. for the following info for you mid-week skiers:
We have a mid-week co-ed Clinic that is scheduled to start on
Dec. 12 that has a few spots open.
If anyone is interested in getting some feed back and direction on how to increase their skills...it's an ideal time. We mostly ski. But individual observation is prevalent. If you're interested contact Kris Karas at the Ski School. The price is about $15. a day.
 
Also note this weekend is a toy collection by Hunter Mtn for the kids on Staten Island affected by "Sandy":
This Saturday and Sunday we will be collecting new toys in the Marketing office by Snowsports Services. These toys will then be donated to Saint Margaret Mary’s Parish in Staten Island, to be given to children for the holidays. This area of Staten Island (NYC precinct 122) was severely hit by Superstorm Sandy in November, so many families will need a little extra cheer this season. Please help us share some joy by bringing in a new, unwrapped toy or two—it will be greatly appreciated.
Ski ya soon,
Jon

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Hunter News 11/29

Hi all,
I just heard that the mtn will open tomorrow, Friday for season passholders only. The only trails open will be H-B-K.  The ski patrol is on the hill now assessing the situation and the groomers will go out later today / tonight.  As of now there are only piles of snow that need to be groomed but the temp is now close to 40 so they have to be careful when pushing it around. The round the clock weather outlook is not favorable for snow making - nights only. Sun and Mon show a warming trend with possible rain - see NWS 7 day forecast below. Are Jimmy W and Buckwheat already lining up for 1 st chair?  Gotta love it!
KMC Restaurant & Bar happy hours will be back open 7 days a week from now on thru the season.
Ski ya on the slopes,
Jon
 

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Hunter News 11/25

Hi All,
Hope you enjoyed Thanksgiving. 
Hunter finally turned on the guns Saturday morning as a wicked cold front came through Friday night and left us with a thin white coating of sleet and snow which remains on the frozen ground. Salt spreaders were out last night. We are experiencing lake effect flurries today with temps staying just below freezing. One can see from the road coming into Hunter from Tannersville that Hellgate is well cvovered already. Expect a possible soft opening and some poaching mid-week but the official opening day will most likely be next Saturday December 1st. Expect cold snow making weather all week  (see 7 day NWS forecast below).
Get your skis and bodies in shape!
Ski ya,
Jon

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Hunter - Snow making up-date Nov 14

Hi All,
Once again the weather is not cooperating. Even though we have cold nights the temps do not stay cold long enough and there are a few inversions predicted in the near term.  Best estimate (subject to change of course) for snow making to commence is the day after Thanksgiving with a full opening around December 1 (soft opening may be earlier). There were a few new snow guns added to the mid-station area including a powerful fan jet and I hear Claire's may also have some new guns on skier's left along side the old "Z" lift.
Other news: The KMC Hotel's restaurant manager, John Jones, is gone and his replacement is slated to start tomorrow.
Many of the pot holes in the parking lot have been filled in and I think you all will like the new deck arrangement on the slope side of the lodge.
Here is a link to a recent MSNBC / Today Show segment on Tannersville:
Reminder: The ULLR Fest behind Keith's "The Pro Ski & Ride" shop on Main St. is this Friday November 16 at 7 pm. It is suggested that you bring your own grog and a lawn chair if sitting is preferred. One pair of skis will be burned as a sacrifice to the ski Gods in a camp-fire like setting. There will be music, food and refreshments.
Trusting you are all getting on well after the super storm and looking forward to winter sports.
Gas is $3.79 / gal and plentiful.
Ski ya soon,
Jon

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Hunter snow update Nov 7

Hi All,
Tonight's storm according to RIP97 is expected to bring 1 - 3 inches of wet snow (a nuisance) as we expect to be in the far northwest corner of it. It will be gone by the weekend as warmer temps (low 50's) roll in.
The good news (spoke to mgmt today) is that the extended forecast for November calls for cold weather and Hunter expects to be open for skiing (limited) Thanksgiving week. The equipment will be tested this week.  This would be the first season in 3 that we will be open before December. The mtn tops are all frosted white!
Better get your skis and bodies tuned up!
 
Gas here is plentiful & no lines @ $3.79/ gal. - cheaper than in Catskill or Albany - how about that!
Ski ya real soon,
Jon

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Hunter News Flash Oct 11

Hi All,
Further to my earlier message please see attached photos of the fill being deposited on the west side as well as all the Z-lift chairs laying on the ground. Now here's the big news - although some of the fill is coming from the tubing park berm which is being lowered and extended futher back into the parking lot, most of it is coming from the half pipe which is being permanently removed due to lack of use and for more space in the terrain park for other obstacles.

Z-lift chairs are for sale @ $250 each to benefit the Hunter Racing Foundation.
Always trying to stay on top of things.  http://hunterskiscene.blogspot.com/
Jon

Hunter News Oct 11

Hi All,
As we head into the weekend with season passholder day on Sat (coinciding with the wine and beer fest) we will be greeted with some welcome cold weather (see below forecast). The tree colors are turning brown and bare as rain and wind have taken their toll on the fall leaves. Also don't forget that season pass / locker prices increase after Oct 15.
 
Once in a while mgmt pays attention to us.  I am pleased to report that for the past few days two huge mining trucks have been shuttling dirt from the tubing park berm back to the west side to help fill in the dip leading up to the quad lift. Thank you David S.
 
There was a water main break on Pine Lane on Tuesday so those of you in Colonel's Chair who were affected should run the water from an outside spiget until it is clear.
 
 
I can almost sense the snow coming early this year! Got to think positve!
Jon
 
Forecast:
It will be breezy and cool today with in and out sunshine and highs in the mid 50's.
A cool front will arrive tonight and as it passes, there will be a few showers into the early morning hours tomorrow.
A reinforcing shot of cooler air will move in behind the front with a gusty northwest wind.  This will keep temperatures in the lower to mid 50's on Friday despite increasing sunshine.
Widespread frost is likely on Saturday morning with many places starting out in the 20's.  Then, with mostly sunny skies in the afternoon it will rebound to the mid 50's.
It will warm up to the 60's on Sunday although scattered showers will be back in the forecast as well.

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Hunter Zip Line News

Hi All,
Please be advised that ABC today announced on TV that it will air the segment shot on Hunter's Zip Line on its national "Good Morning America" show this Thursday morning Aug 16.  Be sure to tune in and advise your friends.
Jon

Monday, April 30, 2012

Hunter 2012-2013 season passes & lockers

Hi All,
Just a reminder that the prices for all season passes and lockers go up after May 1 by $100 and $50 respectively. Only today and tomorrow left to purchase at a discount.
Hope you all enjoy your spring - once it starts anyway! Had great snow making weather the past 3 nights - to bad it wasn't February.
Jon

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Hunter March 22

Hi All,
Just a quick final note - as you know Saturday is the last day (earliest closing ever) and only the Flyer will be open - no "B", "D" or "F" due lack of snow getting on / off. The west side and Hunter One will remain closed for the season. The NJ Ski Council Race has been cancelled due no "B" lift. The terrain that will be open is for advanced skiers only and is typical spring soft snow and moguls. The Belt is open top to bottom but I cannot say if HBK is open without some walking. Temp here now 76 and sunny.
The Mtn is hosting a deck party on Saturday but rain is forecast after noon time.
Have a great spring & summer and thanks for all your comments and suggestions.
Time for yard work!
Jon
Here is the NWS forecast thru the weekend.
Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 45. North wind between 5 and 9 mph.

Friday: Partly sunny, with a high near 65. North wind between 6 and 10 mph.

Friday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39. North wind at 7 mph becoming east.

Saturday: A chance of showers after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 58. Southeast wind between 5 and 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Saturday Night: A chance of showers. Cloudy, with a low around 42. East wind around 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Sunday: A chance of rain. Cloudy, with a high near 50. Chance of precipitation is 40%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Hunter March 21

Hi All - welcome the first full day of spring!
Currently 76 and very sunny. Night time temps have only reached the upper 40's. Not much left to ski without walking from one patch to the next.
Following info released by Hunter:

1. The last day of the 11/12 season is Saturday March 24th. We will NOT be open Sunday.

2. The Hell Track scheduled for Sunday March 25th has been cancelled.

3. The NJ Ski Council Race scheduled for Saturday is ON. It will take place on Madison Ave. Cru will attempt to start the race before 10am. Stay tuned for more info from Cru.

4. Pond Skimming, scheduled for Saturday, has been cancelled and replaced with a fun Tube Slide Ride that will end in a pool of water. It will take place in front of the base lodge.

5. There will be a DJ on the deck Saturday afternoon.

'nuff said,

Jon

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Hunter March 18 update

Hi all,
Apparently my scepticism and economic common sense got the better of me. Hunter apparently will be open during the week due to commitments to spring season pass holders. ( I still have my doubts) What trails will be open is another matter. If ski patrol cannot safely get a toboggan or skimobile to any area it will be closed. It is 74 now and will stay warm overnight for the entire week. The pond skimming too is way up in the air - I do not expect it to happen. The mtn has brown and bare spots like the plague and the snow is melting and running off in mini rivers. Sorry to be so negative but that's how I see it. If you really like the slush then go for it!
Jon

Hunter March 18 - Last day??

Hi All,
With my leg healed, I just returned from a glorious week of skiing in Utah with many Hunterites - Back to reality as they say. Check out the barcharlie facebook page for pics: http://www.facebook.com/barcharlie
Hunter held its St. Pat's bash on the deck yesterday complete with a band and bikini clad models in the 3 hot tubs set up just off the deck. There was a large noisy crowd drinking and dancing but not many on the slushy brown slopes. The temp was in the low 60's - well into the 70's in the sun. After speaking with several of the powers that be, I am reading between the lines - my opinion - that today will be Hunter's last day. (Windham closes today) The mountain will not be open during the week and with predicted record high temps all week there will not be enough snow to open next weekend. Pond skimming will not happen this year and it could be the earliest closing ever. NWS 7 day forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157
Stay tuned for the official announcement.

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Hunter March 6

Hi All
Two great days in a row on an empty mtn. Last night's temps dropped to 12 but rebounded quickly with brilliant sun & blue sky to 40 now (50 on the deck). Skiing I am told was easy on ego snow but no grooming on Minya, Eside or UpperK. Claire's was closed early due to a glaze but opened once things softened up. The main line and Racer's were excellent. The hoses have been removed from the guns so do not expect any more snow making. No closing date has been mentioned as it all depends on weather and crowds. The ground is still white up here but melting fast. Based on past years, when warm weather came early the weekday skiing was curtailed toward the end of March in order to save it for weekends. Pond skimming has been scheduled for March 31. We will get very warm weather and slushy conditions this week. NWS forecast:
The mtn has set up 3 hot tubs and a fire pit (gas) in front of the deck as a promo from a hot tub company so expect to see some select bathers in them on Sat -Sun.
No movies posted yet. The Copper Tree Bar is closed for the season. The restaurant in the Hunter Village Square Bldg (Amy's Take-away) has closed - gone out of business. Cosmic Charlies has become the hot new spot on the block.
Ski on...........

Friday, March 2, 2012

Hunter March 2

Hi All,
The storm left between 7 - 8" of heavy snow. It was mostly cloudy today with temps at 40 now and a light breeze. The trails that were not groomed were cut up early and were very variable. Visibility was a problem with fog covering the top of the mtn. The groomed trails stayed firm for a while before getting very soft.The best run I was told by several people was Wayout which was groomed but stayed firm because the west side was colder. There was a good crowd for a Friday, F lift was opened mid morning but the line at the Flyer was minimal.
3 Movies: Descendants, Carnage & The Iron Lady.
Be prepared for a messy & variable weather weekend.
Jon
Here is the NWS outlook:
This Afternoon: Mostly cloudy, with a high near 41. South wind around 10 mph.

Tonight: Rain likely before midnight, then rain and sleet between midnight and 1am, then rain after 1am. Low around 35. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 13 mph increasing to between 18 and 21 mph. Winds could gust as high as 31 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. Little or no snow accumulation expected.

Saturday: Rain likely, mainly before 10am. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 49. Southwest wind between 7 and 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible.

Saturday Night: A slight chance of snow showers after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 22. West wind between 14 and 16 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Sunday: A chance of snow showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 33. West wind between 11 and 17 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Hunter Feb 28

Hi All,
We have a winter storm brewing for Wed & Thur. The big question is how much will we get. Hunter just posted a powder alert with a map on its website ( http://echo3.bluehornet.com/hostedemail/email.htm?CID=11290590774&ch=521D799772B68EFD9E065AF11C43BC93&h=eb0a66da4cb7b4ed6be60b8f66e5cd01&ei=svO8HY8NV ) however both Albany stations predict more wet than white south of Saratoga County per below. The forecasts as usual are conflicting and anything could happen here on the mountain top. Today has been very windy and sunny with temps from 30 to now 38. Hunter has not been making any snow but the grooming has been nothing less than spectacular providing excellent surface conditions - great job Skip!
Any week-day on the mountain is better than sitting at your desk or in your car - wherever you work!
Ski ya,
Jon
WRGB:
Weather Advisories: A WINTER STORM WATCH is in effect from Wednesday afternoon through Thursday..
.
Snow will develop across the region midday Wednesday and get steadier by Wednesday evening and continue into Thursday morning..
The snow will mix with some sleet and freezing rain and perhaps a period of rain south of the Mohawk valley resulting a wide range of accumulations across the region.
WNYT:

High pressure will build in today and keep it dry, although clouds will be mixed with sunshine and it will be blustery and colder than yesterday. Highs will be in the upper 30s.

Clouds will increase tonight out ahead of the next storm and lows will be in the lower 20s.

A strong storm will approach on Wednesday. It will be dry to start the day off but snow will move in by late morning or early afternoon and it will be snowing in most places with a couple of inches on the ground for the evening commute. Highs will be in the lower to mid mid 30s.

We're still sorting out the finer details, but the thinking is that the snow will mix with sleet and eventually change to rain from about Saratoga County south tomorrow evening. Further north it will remain mainly snow, including the Adirondacks and the Greens into the overnight hours. It is in these locations where the heaviest snowfall totals are expected.

More snow or a rain-snow mix is expected on Thursday on the back side of the system. Additional accumulation is likely. Highs will me in the mid 30s.

Sunshine will come back on Friday with highs near 40, and the next storm will bring mostly rain on Saturday with highs near 50.

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Hunter Feb 23

Hello Hunter fans,
Today brought early rain which ended by 9 am then sun and clouds but a strong wind with temps holding steady at 37 - 38. There was a light wet dusting of snow on top. The surface conditions were consistent loose soft granular on frozen granular turning very soft by late morning. Skiing was said to be excellent with great visibility. There were no lift lines. The weather definitely looks ugly for Friday with a mixed bag of wet tricks and colder for the weekend.
The movies have still not been posted - maybe later today but here is the link: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html
Be prepared for crazy weather,
Jon
Albany WNYT forecast:

A stronger storm system will head our way tonight into tomorrow. it will be dry this evening with precipitation moving in after Midnight. Right now it looks like rain south of Albany while snow is likely from I-90 north. Most of the hills and mountains will pick up 1-3 inches of snow by sunrise tomorrow with the valleys transitioning from snow to rain and getting 1" or less. Overnight lows will be in the lower to mid 30's.

The transition to rain will continue through the morning tomorrow from south to north before the steady precipitation winds down. Highs on Friday will vary by region, with average readings around 40.

Windy and colder weather will arrive for the weekend with snow showers and highs in the low 30s on Saturday; more sunshine but still lower 30s for Sunday.

NWS Forecast:
This Afternoon: Mostly sunny, with a high near 45. West wind between 14 and 17 mph.

Tonight: Snow, mainly after 2am. Low around 30. West wind at 7 mph becoming east. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible.

Friday: Rain, snow, and sleet, becoming all rain after noon. High near 38. East wind 8 to 15 mph becoming southwest. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow and sleet accumulation of 1 to 2 inches possible.

Friday Night: A chance of rain and snow showers before 7pm, then a chance of snow showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 25. Breezy, with a west wind between 16 and 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Saturday: A chance of snow showers. Cloudy, with a high near 33. Breezy, with a west wind between 17 and 22 mph, with gusts as high as 33 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Saturday Night: Partly cloudy and breezy, with a low around 16.

Sunday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 32.

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Hunter Feb 22

Hi All,
The reports from skiers have been very favorable all week with sweet soft surface conditions and inversion temps (warmer at the top than at the base) on a few days. Spring conditions have prevailed especially in the afternoons. The weather pattern for the next few days into the weekend is very hard to predict as computer models differ quite a bit. It is 48 here now and mostly cloudy with some spotty rain due soon. There is the possibility for some snow making Friday and/or Saturday nights if the temps drop enough. The hoses have not yet been disconnected from the snow guns. The crowds have been relatively light for a holiday week without any significant lift lines - actually hardly any.
Movies not yet posted but here is the site: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html
Big sales have started at the ski shop.
Ski safely and stay thirsty my friends,
Jon

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Hunter Feb 16

Hi All,
As we approach the President's Day weekend the weather is not cooperating. It is currently 35 with a light rain, some wind and flat light. The temp did drop to 21 last night but no snow was made. It looks like we may get a dusting of wet snow tonight and again Friday night.
You can still purchase tickets for the flood victims benefit concert at the Orpheum in Tannersville for Sunday night: http://www.catskillmtn.org/events/orpheum-performing-arts-center/2012-02-19-professor-louie-and-the-crowmatix-and-the-546.html
Due to a non ski related injury (non-displaced bone fracture of the right fibula head in the knee joint) that will temporarily sideline me for up to 3 weeks my reports will be very sporadic and will only advise of weather and / or news that is pertinent to the mountain. I am able to hobble around with a serious knee brace - thankfully no crutches. I suggest you save any of the above links in your "favorites" for quick reference on weather and movies.
Shit happens!

Friday, February 10, 2012

Hunter Feb 10

Hi All,
3 great weather days in a row - new season record! Strong sun pushed temps from 15 last night to 40 now. No wind and only some high clouds moving in as I write. The mountain was groomed to perfection except for Claire's which was bullet proof - Kudos Skip! It was easily another "9" today. It is the grooming that will make or break a ski day although they did blow some new snow last night. Starting tonight we will see a deep freeze thru at least next Wednesday with some possible snow accumulation of an inch or two, high winds and clouds. Here's the forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157
It looks like Cosmic Charlie's may be open this weekend as a welcome addition to the Hunter restaurant scene. It is the old Low & Low real estate office near Numero Uno Pizza.
I strongly caution you that just under the thin granular surface and even if we get a few inches of snow the mountain is like concrete and there have been helicopters here almost every day this week taking some poor soul to Albany. Please ski carefully!!
Have a great safe weekend,

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Hunter Feb 9

Hello ski fans,
Hunter made more snow last night on the usual main trails and skiers were greeted today with lots of sun, no wind, no crowds and temps that went from 20 to 40. Those I spoke to rated the day a "9". Claire's had been groomed so that was back on the "A" list today but Racer's was a bit too slick for most. The lifts were running fine and a crew was actually filling in potholes in the parking lot with hot asphalt. Tomorrow looks to be another great day making it 3 in a row which for this season is some kind of record. The outlook for the weekend is much colder especially on Saturday night and Sunday with possible snow flurries.
Just a note to remind you that Monday will be Orville's 95th birthday - WOW!
Ski ya,

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Hunter Feb 8

Hi All,
With temps down to 15 last night Hunter was able to make some nice snow on HBK & the main Eside trails. There were some cloudy flat light periods but the sun is out in a hazy way and the temp is 38. There was no wind. All of the skiers I spoke to said conditions were very good to excellent on the trails that were machine groomed and / or had fresh snow. The mountain is still basically flat and fast. The one trail that was not touched and said to appear treacherous was Claire's. The Flyer was down all day yesterday due to mechanical reasons but seemed to be working fine today. The crowd is very small considering how good conditions are.
The mountain's lift engineer manager, Scott Berwick, broke his hip on Saturday skiing Racer's and is said to be recovering nicely. We all wish Scott a speedy and full recovery. Weekend movies are posted: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html
More snow making in the coming nights which are forecast to be very cold should greatly enhance skiing for the weekend.
Ski ya around,
Jon

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Hunter Jan 7

Hello Hunter fans,
Sorry not to be able to give you trail conditions but I can tell you it was and is a miserable damp, windy, cloudy, cold flat light day. Temps have been between 32 and 37 and I was glad to stay in and watch the NYGiants parade festivities.
It will drop into the middle teens tonight at which time snow making will commence again. Tomorrow will be cloudy and quite cold but Thurs & Friday are looking to be sunny and very favorable for winter ski conditions.
Ski ya,

Monday, February 6, 2012

Hunter Feb 6

Hi All,
It was a "Giant" evening and those who stayed over to ski after watching the game were rewarded with an amazing day - another "10". Temps in the low 20's preserved the snow and allowed for excellent grooming. It is now 50 (60 on the deck) with nothing but blue sky and sun with a light breeze. The mountain hosted the chef's race on Madison (party at Chateau Bellevue) and was otherwise quite empty. Although I cannot ski for a few days due to a calf injury, those lucky enough to be on the hill today had a great time with all trails in great spring-like shape. The weather looks good for tomorrow, light snow showers expected Wed then great for the rest of the week. Here is the NWS 7 day forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157
Come enjoy it while it lasts!
Ski ya around,

Friday, February 3, 2012

Hunter Feb 3

Hi All,
The groundhog may have seen his shadow yesterday but there were no shadows here as a low dense cloud cover made for some very flat light and a damp nasty day. Today however, was a great sunny cold day to ski on some very nice snow that was blown last night. Hunter is the king of recovery! The temps here were between 19 and 34 today with a cloudless sky. All the main trails were nice but Racer's and Claire's were slick and if you didn't have sharp edges you were in trouble. The whole mountain was flat and fast. Cliff and Eside had some wet gun spots but otherwise okay. There was enough of a crowd to open "F" today.
There is no snow in the forecast but the nights will be cold enough to make snow per the 7 day NWS forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157
Enjoy your weekend!
Jon

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Hunter Feb 1

Hello all,
Did anyone say mush? The temp never got below 48 last night and stands at 52 now. It started raining just as the lift opened at 9 am. There have been periods of sun but mostly clouds, passing showers and a light wind. Needless to say I did not ski today but we can all imagine that the surface conditions were soft at best. It will be cooler for the rest of the week but still way above average. The 7 day NWS forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157 The next opportunity for snow making would be Thursday night.
The next rock concert (a fund raiser for the flood victims) at The Orpheum in Tannersville is Sunday night Feb 19th - ticket info: http://www.catskillmtn.org/events/orpheum-performing-arts-center/2012-02-19-professor-louie-and-the-crowmatix-and-the-546.html The headline group, Prof Louie.... is very good - saw them at the inaugural concert a few weeks back.
The mountain will be hosting college races this weekend so expect some trail closures.
Pray for snow,
Jon

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Hunter Jan 31

Hi all,
Wish you all could have been here today - March skiing on Jan 31 - WOW!! Everything came together today for another "10". First of all a big thanks to Skip and his groomers for giving the entire mountain a manicure. Everything from Racer's to Claire's was perfect. The temps were 42 early and now 54 with brilliant sun, light wind and a cloudless sky. It was a colorful crowd with all the FDNY guys decked out in their gear. The lines were minimal (none on the west) as they held their races on Madison. The surface conditions were powder but it did get a bit sticky and clumpy by noon time. There was no ice as everything just softened up early. Claire's and Racer's were as good as it gets - creamy ego snow made it easy. The sun on the deck heated things up to around 70 and the beer was flowing!
There is a 50% chance of rain tomorrow and the 7 day outlook as follows: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157 Hard to believe it will be February.
Ski ya around,

Monday, January 30, 2012

Hunter Jan 30

Hello Hunter fans,
It was fresh powder this am from massive snow making - sweet on all main trails (great job Bruce). Temps stayed in the high 20's all day with some patchy sun early but mostly cloudy with a slight breeze and flat light. The FDNY started trickling in today for their annual races this week. The same lousy freeze / thaw weather pattern we have had all season continues. NWS 7 day forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157
Looks like the hosers may get hosed on Wednesday - good thing they have their fire fighting gear!
Ski ya,
Jon

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Hunter Jan 26

Hello all,
Today we experienced some of the best grooming of the season - great job Skip! All main trails except Claire's, Upper Cross & K27 were groomed to perfection and provided for some real sweet ego skiing. The run-out from K27 was groomed. Cliff / Racer's and HBK were great as was Minya, Eside, Wayout & UpperK27. The sun was out strong for only the first half hour then high clouds moved in but not heavy enough to really impair visibility. The police were racing on Madison today so there were no fenced off areas like yesterday. The mountain was empty and the main lifts were running just fine (no F or D). The temp only got down to 28 overnight and has been around 34 most of the day so far but it is damp. No new snow was made nor will it be made tonight as a front moves in later today with a mix of sleet, freezing rain and rain. This will also dominate the weather tomorrow unfortunately.
Weekend movies are still not posted as of this writing but here is the site: http://www.catskillmtn.org/retail/movie-theater/index.html
Apres ski on Saturday at the main bar 4 pm: DJ Frankieoke and Lex Grey & The Urban Pioneers
The FDNY hosers will be here starting next Tuesday.
I do not expect to ski tomorrow due to the weather so there will be no report - have a great weekend.
Ski ya around,
Jon

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Hunter Jan 25

Hi All,
What a dreary day. I did not go out but others said (as I predicted yesterday) it was loose granular on top of frozen granular, noisy skiing, very flat light and a damp 28 with a wind and some fog at the top. The sun never came out. The police races started today and half of mid-station down thru parts of Bleeker, Ike, Gunhill & Kennedy was fenced off to the public. It should be a nicer day to ski tomorrow. I am hoping they blow some snow tonight.
No weekend movie postings yet but another 70's era rock concert is scheduled for the Orpheum Theater in Tannersville this Friday night with details and ticket prices as follows: http://www.catskillmtn.org/events/orpheum-performing-arts-center/2012-01-27-donna-jean-godchaux-band-541.html The last one was sold out, quite enjoyable and the newly renovated theater is state-of-the-art for seating and sound. Seating is not reserved but every seat has an excellent view.
Be skiing ya,
Jon

Hunter - Fund for Mattice Family

Ok everyone, here are the details for the fund to assist the two children of fallen snowmaker Brian Mattice.
Please open up your hearts and your wallets:
Checks can be made to payable to:

Franklin-Templeton
FBO Mattice


Mailed to:
North Country Financial Group
2 Northway Ln
Latham, NY 12110

Note: FBO means "For Benefit Of" and Franklin-Templeton is one of the largest mutual fund companies in the world.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Hunter Jan 24

Hi All,
The morning turned out to be one of the nicer days to ski this season. The sky was a cobalt blue with bright sun, no wind and temps all day at 40. The surface conditions were excellent, soft and a bit heavy in the sun. Most trails were very sweet. Racer's was a bit slick as was the west side which didn't get the sun till very late morning. Clouds started rolling in around 12 and by 1 the light went very flat and temps started dropping.
The Police Races start tomorrow thru Thurs and the Firemen are here next Tues - Wed.
It will be noticeably colder tomorrow with a wind factor so I expect frozen corduroy in the morning.
I have asked mgmt for details of the fund being set up to aid the Mattice family in the wake of last weeks tragedy and I would hope that you all will be able to contribute a minimum of $5 -10. With 100 of you on my list it would generate a nice base contribution.
Ski ya soon,
Jon

Monday, January 23, 2012

Hunter Jan 23

Hello Hunter fans,
Today: Yech!! All that great powder that was made over the weekend and now 44, with high wind driven rain and fog - what a shame! No trail report as it wasn't fit to go out there for me. Tomorrow we should see sun and experience spring skiing. At least the coverage is very good and should withstand today's thaw.
I am not sure if the Localmotion race is being held today as scheduled (don't really care). If yes, then the party is at MacGregor's. No other noteworthy news to report.
Ski ya in the slush,
Jon

Friday, January 20, 2012

Hunter Jan 20

Hi All,
WOW! Nobody can make snow like Hunter - kudos to Bruce and his crew. Unbelievable powder on all main trails, all west side trails and the opening of K-27. What a great powder day. It was cold (10 on top 20 at the base) with a stiff wind but sunny. There wasn't a bad trail on the mtn today. Guns were blasting all day and White Cloud & 42nd St. were under the guns for the first time as well. Winter has finally arrived with a storm expected tonight into tomorrow with anywhere from 4 to 8". NWS forecast: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157
Kids freestyle mogul competition Sat & Sun on Park Ave between B lift and the terrain park.
The Flyer had some electrical issues today and was shut down around 11 am for 1/2 hr but all okay now. There was a good crowd for a Friday but no significant lines.
Jon

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Hunter Jan 19

Hi Hunter fans,
Let me preface this by saying that there was a noticeable & justified sadness at the mtn today in light of yesterday's tragic loss of a snowmaker. He was the sole custodian of a 14 year old girl who works part time for the hotel and a 19 year old son. Let me suggest that when you see a snow maker, thank him for the job he is doing and let him know you are sorry for the loss - all employees are family and we all grieve with them.
The snowmakers blew alot of great powder in recovery mode after the freeze yesterday and it was a fitting tribute to them. Great classic cold powder skiing today on all main trails with a crystal blue sky, brilliant sun and temps from a low of 7 to 22 now. There was a strong wind out of the east across the mid-station area that blew the snow around in swirls but the surface was very powdery and not a windblown glaze. Cliff/ Racer's was firm but nice. Ike was powdery too. Minya was all swales and whales of powder as was LowerCross. The west side was frozen corduroy but flat and quite edgeable tho noisy. Eside had guns on and was full of powder but with limited visibility. All in all it was a very nice day to ski. I hope tomorrow brings the same.
This weekend Hunter hosts the freestyle mogul competition for kids.
Ski ya soon,

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Hunter Jan 18

Hi All,
After all that nice dry powder Hunter made over the 3 day weekend, Mother Nature threw us another curve ball as the freeze / thaw pattern continues. It rained most of yesterday with temps in the mid 40's and froze overnight with temps at 25, very high winds, mostly cloudy with a few flurries. One would have to be quite desperate to go out on the slopes today. There are more trails closed for the day due to ice than are reported on the web site such as Eside Drive & Upper Cross to name a few. I can only imagine that those trails that are groomed have marbles over frozen granular. The parking lot resembles a wind blown tundra. The weather for the rest of the week is not encouraging.
Weekend movies have not yet been posted.
The old P J Larkins in Tannersville re-opens this Saturday as the LOTI PUB.
Work is progressing well on the new restaurant & bar "Cosmic Charlies" in the old Low & Low Reality office next to Numero Uno Pizza.
Jon

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Hunter Jan 12

Hi All,
Didn't ski today and probably not tomorrow either due to the inclement weather. We got 4" of slush overnight and it is currently 36 with lots of fog (can't see top 1/3 of the mtn ) and intermittent light rain with occasional wind gusts. It will all freeze come tomorrow. See below forecast out of Albany.
Just can't catch an extended break this year with mother nature. Oh well - another party (MLK) weekend.
Bundle up for the weekend - brutal wind chills!
Jon

FIRST WARNING FORECAST

Leftover moisture will produce a few more rain showers and areas of fog and drizzle tonight with overnight lows in the lower to mid 30's.

Tomorrow will be a transition day. In the morning it will be mild with a few rain showers and temperatures climbing to around 40. An arctic front will punch through early in the day and temperatures will begin to drop through the 30's. Along with the front there will be snow showers and even a quick burst of snow possible.

On Saturday the arctic air will continue to flow in. We will see a return to sunshine but highs will only be in the lower to mid 20's.

Sunday and Monday will be sunny but cold with highs in the teens Sunday and mid 20's on Monday.

Temperatures will moderate toward midweek next week with the chance of snow or mixed precipitation on Tuesday.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Hunter skiing Jan 11

Hi All,
In the perspective of what the weather has done to the ski season this year today was a "10".
Perfect grooming, perfect weather and excellent surface conditions on all trails.
There was even a bit of a line today on the Flyer. Temps went from 23 to 41 with a brilliant blue sky - never saw a cloud, and no wind. A great deck day too! Really, one could not ask for a nicer day. That unfortunately will all end tomorrow as some nasty weather rolls in tonight with a mixed bag of tricks. Hopefully we will get more white than wet but it will anyway all freeze for Friday when snow making will resume in recovery mode. A winter weather advisory hazardous weather outlook has been posted by the NWS: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157
Having fun in the sun,
Hi All,
In the perspective of what the weather has done to the ski season this year today was a "10".
Perfect grooming, perfect weather and excellent surface conditions on all trails.
There was even a bit of a line today on the Flyer. Temps went from 23 to 41 with a brilliant blue sky - never saw a cloud, and no wind. A great deck day too! Really, one could not ask for a nicer day. That unfortunately will all end tomorrow as some nasty weather rolls in tonight with a mixed bag of tricks. Hopefully we will get more white than wet but it will anyway all freeze for Friday when snow making will resume in recovery mode. A winter weather advisory hazardous weather outlook has been posted by the NWS: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157
Having fun in the sun,

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Hunter skiing Jan 10

Hi All,
What a dark dreary day. Flat light dominated the skiing but fortunately the grooming was great and everything was consistently flat. Surface conditions also were very consistent - powder mixed with granular on top of a hard frozen granular. Racer's was opened (ungroomed) with a few huge powdery mounds on the first lip and very thin coverage near the bottom. No snow was made last night. The temps ranged from upper 20's to 36 now but as mentioned above, very cloudy. There was a wind at the top out of the west with a few passing flurries. The weather looks ugly for the end of the week: http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=Hunter&state=NY&site=ALY&lat=42.2112&lon=-74.2157
Ski ya,
Jon

Monday, January 9, 2012

Hunter skiing Jan 9

Hello Hunter fans,
The season is becoming one of thaw & freeze cycles. Sat was the thaw and Sun the freeze again. The temps dropped down to 15 last night and the snow guns were blazing in recovery mode resulting in some pretty sweet skiing today. The sun came out around 9:30 and stayed out all day as temps climbed from 25 at opening to a high of 38 with no wind. There were mounds of dry powder on most main trails and those that were not groomed were better than those that were. Racer's still does not have enough coverage at the base to open - Bruce, what's up with that? The main line was creamy powder as was Ike. Cliff was hard and fast as was the top of Belt & Wayout. Claire's looked like a flat sheet of frozen granular. Eside was very funky with mounds of wet frozen snow (wet guns) mixed with mounds of powder - not fun! Minya and Lowercross were very nice as was Gunhill. Localmotion race # 1 is today with the post race party at Slopes (now Creekside). There were no crowds at all - ski right onto the chair. As usual for weekdays, no F or D lift. The trend for the week is warmer with rain on Thurs (another thaw) and very cold (the freeze) for the MLK weekend.
Jon

Detailed Local Forecast

  • Today: Sunny. Temps nearly steady in the low to mid 30s. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
  • Tonight: Cloudy skies this evening. A few snow showers developing late. Low 23F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 30%.
  • Tomorrow: Sunshine and clouds mixed. High 37F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph.
  • Tomorrow night: Clear skies. Low 21F. Winds NNW at 5 to 10 mph.
  • Wednesday: Partly cloudy. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the upper 20s.
  • Thursday: Rain. Highs in the upper 30s and lows in the mid 20s.
  • Friday: Plenty of sun. Highs in the upper 20s and lows in the low teens.

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Hunter skiing Jan 5

Hi All -
Miss the reports? It hasn't been worth skiing for me until now due to large crowds and poor survival type conditions. Enjoyable winter skiing started today! The mtn made oodles of nice snow and the grooming was extensive. Kudos to Skip and Bruce - well done guys! Skiing today was very consistent and powdery with few marbles or ice. It is college week so lots of kids but no line was longer than a minute. The Flyer and Zephyr were running fine (4 minutes to the top on the west side now - sweet!) D and F were closed. Claire's opened with huge powder covered mounds of snow and was more like an obstacle course. Wayout was perfect but could only be reached via the Belt (no White Cloud yet). Cliff /Ike was ungroomed and full of moguls but had decent snow. The HBK main line was great easy ego type skiing. Eside & Minya both groomed and flat but a bit harder surface. Milkey was open but ungroomed and looked ugly. Lower Cross was fine (no snow yet on Upper Cross or Lower K). Upper K was closed too. Gunhill was not groomed. Huega / Dropoff was very nice but dark. Racer's had some snow making but not enough to open it. They were making snow on the cut thru behind the top of B lift so that option should be open tomorrow. The weather started out dark, low 20's with light lake effect flurries but the sun was out by 9:30. It has clouded up again now with temps currently at 31. Snow making should resume later this pm and Friday is shaping up to be another very nice day tho a bit warmer. The weekend looks to be too warm to make alot of snow.
Madison was closed for NASTAR racing and the first Localmotion race is on Monday.
Ski ya soon,
Detailed Local Forecast
  • Today: Sun and clouds mixed. High 29F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph.
  • Tonight: Clear to partly cloudy. Low 18F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
  • Tomorrow: Partly cloudy skies. High 39F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph.
  • Tomorrow night: Partly cloudy in the evening with more clouds for later at night. Low 26F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
  • Saturday: Times of sun and clouds. Highs in the low 40s and lows in the mid 20s.
  • Sunday: Times of sun and clouds. Highs in the low 30s and lows in the low 20s.
  • Monday: Clouds giving way to sun . Highs in the mid 30s and lows in the low 20s.